Although the terms counseling, therapy, and psychotherapy are often used interchangeably, and although they have overlapping aspects, there is a difference between them.
Counseling is generally a short-term intervention designed to help a person address a particular problem, such as addiction or work conflicts. The focus is typically on solving a problem or on learning specific techniques for coping with or overcoming specified problem areas. Counsellors usually attend a masters in counselling or psychology.
Psychotherapy, on the other hand, is often a long-term intervention that focuses on helping a person identify and break unhealthy patterns of thinking and habitual behaviours that may negatively affect the way that person interacts with their world. Only licensed psychotherapists and psychologists can provide psychotherapy. Psychotherapists may have a master degree or Ph.D. in a mental health related field, and psychologists typically complete a Ph.D. in clinical psychology.
Art therapy is a form of psychotherapy or counselling that utilizes expressive means such as drawing, painting, singing, or poetry to make meaning of one’s experience and alleviate suffering. It does not require art skills and is often a powerful vehicle for change.
Psychotherapy, Art therapy, and Counselling can be challenging yet rich experiences, that can improve a persons wellbeing at different levels, such as in their relationships, job satisfaction, and personal sense of self. Therapy is an umbrella term that refers to any form of consultation intended to help alleviate suffering, whether it be physical or mental.